So, you wonder if you might aspire to go into being a plumber. Before you begin casting about for plumber training, you ought to find out what this trade might need from you, the tasks you will need to perform and the skills you ought to have.
What jobs does a plumber have
The job description of a plumber will require installing, fixing and maintaining plumbing systems. Typically, you will get to deal with cold water, steam, heat, drainage and sewage systems. These will be commercial, domestic and industrial plumbing systems.
You will get to look at heaters, sinks, tanks, pumps, pipes, commodes, joints and valves to decide what’s malfunctioning or broken, so that you get to fix or replace these things as necessary.
You will need to be capable of reading blueprints, schemes and drawings to learn how the system is laid out, plus to mark locations of pipe connections and other fixtures.
The trade has to include dealing with a variety of specialist plumbing tools, like pipe cutters, threading disks, reamers and others.
You've got to be aware that you might find yourself working in bad light, small spaces, dirty spaces, big heights, dangerous materials (for instance, acid), and you will find yourself drenched in scalding or freezing water on some days.
Also, as well as the physical skills you've got to have to master the job, you will also have to be aware of the legal aspects of plumbing; you must memorise safety laws, and to make sure that your work answers all the existing legal procedures.
What mental skills may you require to turn into a good plumber?
The job description of a plumber will certainly need a mix of intelligence and physical skills.
Your hands will get dirty, and you need to be okay with this. A head for heights will also come in useful, plus the ability to lift up and carry heavy things. You've got to be able to get yourself into tight spaces and do your work there, such as in small basements, underneath sinks and behind dishwashers. You’ll need to be able to use a lot of tools properly and safely, so being good with your hands in general is a must for any wannabe plumber.
Also, you must have a great ability and initiative to solve problems: seriously, you'll be grateful for it when you’re lying under a sink with cold water gushing in your face. You will have to be very flexible, as there are a lot of plumbing systems you'll need to know your way around. A good judgement and a mind that is open to unusual solutions will also stand you in good stead.
Most of all, you’ll require a good work ethic, be completely honest and completely professional, because your reputation with clients will have a huge influence on you plumbing career.
In summary, plumbing is a highly skilled trade, and your plumbing training will take some serious effort. However, it will also be highly rewarding and well-paid, because skilled tradesmen are always rare. Everybody needs a plumber, right?
